Direct Answer: (Basic) Copper Hydroxyl Phosphate(a.k.a Copper Hydroxide Phosphate) enables neutral gray laser markings by absorbing NIR radiation, converting it to heat and triggering char formation for precise polymer marking.
| Feature | LaserMark C | LaserMark W | Carbon Black | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry | Copper hydroxide phosphate | Antimony tin oxide (ATO) | Elemental carbon | |
| Safety | Antimony-free | Contains antimony | Generally regarded as safe (grade-dependent) | |
| Marking | Jet black on light substrates | Gray / dark gray | Gray to black (substrate-dependent) | Context-dependent |
| Absorption | High @ 1064 nm | Medium @ 1064 nm | Broad spectrum | |
| Loading | 0.5–1.0 % | 2.0–4.0 % | 0.2–1.0 % | Application-dependent |
Basic Copper Hydroxyl Phosphate (BCHP) is an inorganic copper-based compound that absorbs near-infrared (NIR) radiation and enables precise laser activation for marking, metallization, and polymer modification. It is particularly effective in fire-safe and laser-responsive plastic applications, contributing to smoke suppression, catalysis of char formation, and laser activation.
Upon NIR irradiation, BCHP undergoes a redox reaction where Cu²⁺ is reduced to Cu⁰, promoting char formation and absorbing energy to trigger polymer carbonization. This reaction results in high-contrast markings on polymers without relying on pigments or surface foaming.
Non-Applicability: BCHP is generally not applicable in applications requiring high transparency or pure white aesthetics without heavy masking or Acidic Environments
Unknown/Unverified: Long-term performance in high-humidity or extreme pH environments is still under investigation.
Activation Boundary: BCHP requires laser fluence above 10 J/cm² for effective activation, lower levels may not trigger the desired effect.
The information provided is based on peer-reviewed research and experimental data in the field of laser materials science.
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This patent discusses copper-based salts, including copper hydroxyl phosphate, as laser marking additives to improve contrast and marking efficiency in thermoplastic materials. These additives absorb laser energy, producing a visible mark.
1996-01-01
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